Chapter 17 from Genesis, where today's reading comes from, uses the word "covenant" 13 times. God makes a covenant — an everlasting pact — with Abram and his descendants. There are two sides to the covenant, as God also tells Abraham, "On your part, you and your descendants after you must keep my covenant throughout the ages" (Gen 17:9).

In today's Gospel reading, Jesus offers the Jews words of eternal life. He says, "Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever keeps my word will never see death" (Jn 8:51).

They ask, "Are you greater than our father Abraham, who died? Or the prophets, who died? Who do you make yourself out to be?" (Jn 8:30). The response is direct:

Jesus answered, "If I glorify myself, my glory is worth nothing; but it is my Father who glorifies me, of whom you say, 'He is our God.' You do not know him, but I know him. And if I should say that I do not know him, I would be like you a liar. But I do know him and I keep his word" (Jn 8:54-55).

Why should these Jews listen? Jesus says, "Amen, amen, I say to you, before Abraham came to be, I AM." The meaning here is plain: Jesus is equal to God the Father. Keep His word, and have life.